MODULAR TOY SYSTEM WITH ELECTRONIC TOY MODULES

Smart overview of the Invention

A modular toy system is designed with multiple electronic toy modules, each equipped with a function device and a control circuit. The system allows for interactive play by controlling the function devices based on detected positions or orientations of other modules within the system. Notably, the first module includes a sensor system that enables contactless detection of coordinate values, enhancing the system's interactivity without requiring physical connections or complex configurations.

Technical Field

This innovation pertains to modular toy systems composed of electronic modules. Historically, toy construction systems have evolved from simple building blocks to sophisticated elements featuring motors, sensors, and programmable processors. These advancements aim to increase the play value by enabling interactive and educational experiences. The disclosed system seeks to further enhance flexibility and ease of use in designing various interactive assemblies.

Background

Previous modular systems often relied on mechanical triggers or required abstract technical understanding to set up electrical connections, which could limit user engagement. Systems like WO 2007/137577 and WO 2015/173246 introduced electrically interconnected elements and wireless communication for more dynamic interactions. However, these systems still posed challenges in terms of setup complexity and design flexibility. The current invention addresses these limitations by allowing modules to interact based on spatial arrangements without extensive wiring or configuration.

Functionality

The system's capability to detect coordinate values contactlessly enhances user interaction by allowing modules to respond dynamically to their relative positions and orientations. This flexibility enables users, particularly children, to create diverse and functional toy assemblies without needing specialized knowledge in control structures or data communication. The sensor system's detection range can extend up to 30 cm, facilitating versatile arrangements within normal play environments.

Detection Mechanism

The sensor system can determine either position or orientation coordinates independently of line-of-sight visibility, which means modules can interact even when obstructed by other objects. This system may utilize various sensing technologies and does not necessarily depend on data communication between modules for coordinate determination. However, communication can occur to refine measurements, such as sharing magnetic field data, thereby reducing sensor requirements and enhancing accuracy.